Pollastrini, Alberto M. Helmets and Body Armour in New Kingdom Egypt

This book examines the dynamics surrounding the introduction and spread of helmets and body armour in Egypt during the 18th, 19th and 20th dynasties. It argues that the term introduction is best suited to describe this phenomenon, as these types of military equipment were not Egyptian technological innovations, but originally appeared at the end of the Bronze Age after the expansion of the Hurrians in the Middle East, before spreading to surrounding areas. The analysis focuses in particular on an examination of iconographic, archaeological and lexicographical evidence from a wide range of surviving material evidence and literary sources. Based on the data compiled, it provides the most accurate perspective possible on the introduction and spread of helmets and cuirasses, their impact on warfare and their possible ideological role throughout the New Kingdom period. Pollastrini also draws productive comparisons between the Egyptian data and contemporary evidence from the Near East and the Aegean region to substantiate the international dynamics. In doing so, she promotes both a broader ancient historical perspective that places New Kingdom Egypt in its contemporary context and sheds new light on developments in military history and warfare during this period.